A Review of Strategies for Using Pistachio Waste

Introduction: Iran is one of the largest producers of pistachios in the world. The development of pistachios and related industries has created various conditions and opportunities for the expansion of agricultural and industrial activities as well as environmental issues. The researches show that only 35% of the weight of fresh pistachios is comprised of dried pistachios, so pistachio processing produces a large amount of pistachio waste, which can cause widespread environmental pollution if not managed properly. Materials and Methods: This is a review study that examines the methods of using pistachio waste in previous studies. This research is conducted by searching keywords in Scopus, web of sciences and other Iranian scientific and research databases. Results: The findings of this study showed that most of the studies conducted on pistachio waste have investigated three areas of removal of pollutants from aquatic environments by surface adsorption process, biogas and biofuel production and compost production. According to studies, pistachio shell powder and activated carbon produced from pistachio shell can remove cyanide, heavy metals and dyes from aquatic environments. Conclusion: The management of waste resulting from pistachio processing industries can reduce the threat of environmental pollution and help to control pollution, remove pollutants from the environment, increase agricultural productivity and earn income from products. Pistachio waste can be used more in three areas of pollutant absorption, biogas production and compost.